Evaluating Social Support Programs for Older Adults in Healthcare Settings

  • Saleh Khalaf Dahi Alsukibi et al.
Keywords: social support programs, older adults, healthcare settings, evaluation methods, quality of life, mental health, stakeholder involvement, health outcomes, engagement, continuous feedback.

Abstract

Evaluating social support programs for older adults in healthcare settings is crucial in ensuring the well-being and quality of life for this population. These programs often aim to address the unique challenges that older adults face, such as loneliness, chronic health conditions, and decreased mobility. By assessing the effectiveness of these programs, healthcare providers can identify best practices that enhance social interactions, improve mental health, and increase engagement in health-promoting activities. Evaluation methods may include qualitative assessments through interviews and focus groups, as well as quantitative analysis of health outcomes, social participation metrics, and overall satisfaction with care. Furthermore, effective evaluation requires a comprehensive understanding of the diverse needs of older adults, incorporating factors such as cultural background, socioeconomic status, and existing social networks. Stakeholder involvement is also vital, involving older adults, family members, and caregivers in the evaluation process to ensure that programs are tailored to meet their specific needs. Continuous feedback loops can help to refine these programs, promoting a holistic approach that integrates social support into healthcare strategies. Ultimately, successful evaluation can lead to improved health outcomes, greater independence, and enhanced quality of life for older adults.

Author Biography

Saleh Khalaf Dahi Alsukibi et al.

Saleh Khalaf Dahi Alsukibi¹, Abdulaziz Mubarak Khelaiwi Alkhelaiwi², Mansour Awad Alsehli³, Albalawi Nayef Hamed A.⁴, Adel Mousa Saleh Alshammari⁵, Abdullah Osaywid Alreshidi⁶, Adel Khalaf Homoud Alodaili⁷, Lafi Sunayd Lafi Alshammari⁸, Mohammad Alamiri Alreshidi⁹, Ahmed Rshaid A. Alhashim¹⁰, Amnah Mohammed Basheer¹¹

¹ Senior Specialist Social Service, Hail Health Cluster, Hail, Hail Region, Saudi Arabia.
² Specialist-Sociology, Al-Qurayyat General Hospital, Al-Qurayyat, Al-Jouf Region, Saudi Arabia.
³ Social Worker, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Medical City, Madinah, Madinah Region, Saudi Arabia.
⁴ Specialist Sociology, Al-Wajh General Hospital, Al-Wajh, Tabuk Region, Saudi Arabia.
⁵ Specialist Sociology, Hail Health Cluster, Hail, Hail Region, Saudi Arabia.
⁶ Senior Specialist Social Service, Hail Health Cluster, Hail, Hail Region, Saudi Arabia.
⁷ Specialist Sociology, Hail Health Cluster, Hail, Hail Region, Saudi Arabia.
⁸ Specialist Sociology, Hail Health Cluster, Hail, Hail Region, Saudi Arabia.
⁹ Psychologist, Hail General Hospital, Hail, Hail Region, Saudi Arabia.
¹⁰ Psychology - Clinical Psychology, Hail Health Cluster, Hail, Hail Region, Saudi Arabia.
¹¹ Social Workers, King Saud Medical City, Riyadh, Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia.

Published
2023-02-04
Section
Regular Issue